A statewide shutdown has been called in Karnataka today by pro-Kannada groups, protesting the alleged assault on a bus conductor in Belagavi last month for not knowing Marathi. The 12-hour bandh, set to last from 6 am to 6 pm, is expected to cause significant disruptions, especially in transport services, as several auto-rickshaw, cab, and private driver unions have expressed their support for the protest.
In anticipation of potential unrest, the state government has made extensive security arrangements, deploying home guards and city armed reserve units across the state. Despite these measures, transport services will still be impacted. While state-run services like the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) and Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) will remain operational, private transport unions are expected to cease operations.
Although hotel associations, malls, bars, and restaurants have voiced "moral support" for the protest, essential services such as pharmacies, hospitals, ambulances, petrol stations, and metro services will continue to function as usual.
Schools and colleges will remain open despite the shutdown. However, the bandh is likely to affect transport availability, posing challenges for students, particularly those in Class 10, who are sitting for exams today.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has expressed opposition to the shutdown, stating, "We will protect the interests of the state. Everyone should maintain peace and follow the law. However, I feel there is no need for a bandh."
Notably, some pro-Kannada factions, including the Karnataka Rakshana Vedike led by T.A. Narayana Gowda and Praveen Shetty, have distanced themselves from the protest.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)